The Upolu Youth league competition (“youth league”) which has not happened in a year due to covid restrictions kicked off at the Football Federation Samoa (FFS) Headquarters at Tuanaimato on Saturday 1 April 2023. The youth league is for a period of 22 weeks and shall conclude in July 2023.
The event was well attended by hundred and five teams from 18 registered clubs in Upolu who are all aiming for first place in the boys’ and girls’ categories.
The annual Upolu Youth League, with its overall objective of ensuring there is healthy competition to develop and nurture grassroot football for the youths by providing opportunities for them to participate in a competitive but overall fun environment.
In addition, the youth leagues also look at developing the capabilities and skills of club coaches to enable them to carry out their duties efficiently relative to the game. A total of hundred and five teams from twenty-two (22) registered clubs in Upolu will be dusting off their boots to compete for a win in this year’s competition.
FFS Competition Manager Papalii Laautuivanu commented on the significance of the tournament and stated, “The 22 week’s tournament is designed as an opportunity to learn more about the game, its laws, format of the competitions and the way FFS administers its games.”
The Upolu Youth League is a sole competition for registered clubs in Upolu. A similar tournament for Savaii will start in the upcoming months. The two separate tournaments for Upolu and Savaii can further grow and develop players since FFS annual Youth tournaments has been on break for a year.
“It is important that we have two main Youth Tournaments so that we can restart developing our players,” Laatuivanu stated.
The Upolu Youth League tournament is a combination of Samoa’s, passion for football, competitiveness, and desire to win! It is also a poster child for the ability of sports in general, namely football to promote understanding and friendship amongst young players.
